Posts: 8

Topic: The "S" Word

We have shrinkage!!!

Our local oncologist reviewed my wife's first CT scan since chemo started. We've been through 3 cycles (Gem/Cis) so far, total of 6 chemo treatments. We felt that positive results were coming our way. Her abdomen had reduced in size by 6" since chemo started mid-May. Her pain had reduced such that we reduced her pain meds by 33%. And she actually began to have an appetite.

But the real validation would be the CT results. We learned there was significant shrinkage of the tumors and the size of the liver itself. In May, there were multiple masses throughout the liver, plus a large tumor in the center. The size of the large tumor was reduced and it seemed many of the smaller masses were gone or at least not visible on this scan. In addition, there was reduction in size of the lymph nodes. The reduction of the size of nodes was several mm's.

Our oncologist was pleased and added 3 more cycles (9 weeks) of the Gem/Cis regimen. We agreed since she is tolerating it well and clearly it is having an impact. But we are also still planning to meet with the oncology team at Memorial Sloan this Friday. We want to get their perspective of the results to date and also discuss possible trials/other options, which our local oncologist was not able to do.

This was the first piece of positive feedback since we received the difficult news in mid-April. For those of you who have been through this, I now understand more clearly the amazing "highs" that come with the terrible "lows" as we learn to deal with this new life.

Thanks to all of you who have helped me, and therefore helped my wife, get through this very challenging first hurdle.

Re: The "S" Word

Oh, Carl and "shrinking" wife. Sorry couldn't help it. This is the best news today! Heck it's the best news ever! I am so happy for you and am excited to hear about your visit on Friday, sounds like perfect timing. YIPPEE!

Teddy ~In our hearts forever~ATTITUDE is EVERYTHINGAny suggestion I offer is intended as friendly advice based solely on my own experience. Please consult your doctor for professional guidance.

Re: The "S" Word

Carl....you had me stumbling a bit with your title, but the news of the shrinkage deserves a big "S" and much more yet. Congratulations, not only does your wife feel better, her scans support her better state of health. Good luck with the upcoming appointment at Sloan and please keep the good news coming our way.Hugs,Marion

THIS INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED NOR IMPLIED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

Re: The "S" Word

Great news Carl!! Many thanks for sharing that with us. Love hearing the S word! Good luck to your wife with her app at SK and I so hope that the good news continues to roll for you both!

My best wishes to you and your wife,

Gavin

Any advice or comments I give are based on personal experiences and knowledge and are my opinions only, they are not to be substituted for professional medical advice. Please seek professional advice from a qualified doctor or medical professional.

Re: The "S" Word

Carl,Great news!! And I hope you get some promising ideas from MSK.

KrisJ"Don't just have minutes in the day; have moments in time."Any opinions I give are based on personal experiences, and are not based on medical knowledge. I strongly suggest receiving medical care and opinions.

The information expressed is not medical advice. The discussion boards are not intended to replace the services of a trained health professional or to be a substitute for the medical advice of physicians or other healthcare providers. Read the full disclaimer.